Counter Terrorism Security Advisors

The North East Counter Terrorism Unit, together with the North East regional forces, is better trained and equipped than ever before to combat the threat of International and Domestic terrorism. As part of the ongoing national counter terrorism strategy, the Unit has dedicated Counter Terrorism Security Advisors (CTSAs) who are coordinated, trained and tasked by the National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO).

The primary role of CTSAs is to identify and assess local critical sites, which may be vulnerable to terrorist or extremist attack, then devise and develop appropriate protective security plans to minimise impact on that site and the surrounding community. CTSAs also promote awareness of the threat from terrorism and develop positive ongoing relationships with the local business community, partner agencies and site owners to encourage a coordinated approach. They work closely with representatives of trade organisations and professional bodies to ensure counter terrorism protective security advice is incorporated in general crime prevention regimes.

CTSAs receive comprehensive specialist training in areas such as explosives and pre-cursor chemicals, pathogens and toxins, radiological sources, site and vulnerable point surveying, integrated security systems, designing out vehicle borne terrorism and the threat from CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear) attack. They also have responsibility for the protective security of Crowded Places; those areas which by virtue of their crowd destiny may be vulnerable to terrorist attack (e.g. shopping centres, sporting stadia, pubs and bars or transport hubs.

The public can play a key role in supporting the Counter Terrorism Unit and the Police. By remaining vigilant, being security minded and having good security measures in place, you can protect your business against crime and make the work of terrorists more difficult. A small investment in security measures greatly enhances the feeling of security on behalf of everyone and helps protect those around you.

For non-urgent crime prevention advice, businesses can contact their local Crime Reduction Officer, but if you feel that your company could benefit from counter terrorism security advice, you can contact your local CTSAs via email: ctuleeds.ctsa@westyorkshire.pnn.police.uk or write to the following address: Counter Terrorism Security Adviser, PO Box 9, Laburnum Road, Wakefield, WF1 3QP.

Other useful counter terrorism advice and information can be found on the following sites: